“Jerémy Doku returns to the World Cup and motivates a reaction from his Belgian teammates.”

Jeremy Doku has returned to the Belgian national team for the World Cup, ignoring all the controversy and viral criticism regarding his absence after traveling to London to witness the birth of his first child, Praise. At a time when Belgium is under immense pressure following two embarrassing draws against Egypt and Iran, the Manchester City winger made it back in time for the crucial match against New Zealand on Friday in Vancouver, where only a victory will keep the Red Devils’ hopes alive in Group G.

Doku’s arrival in Seattle on Tuesday night was marked by a warm reception at the national team’s hotel, with applause and hugs from teammates and coaching staff. The decision of the 24-year-old player to temporarily step away from the World Cup was officially supported by the Belgian Football Association, despite generating a wave of heated debate on social media and among sports commentators. The club itself shared on social media: “Back to training after the most important assist of his life,” highlighting the significance of the moment for the Belgian international.

THE 2026 WORLD CUP LIVES ON WITH LEGO

Jeremy Doku missed the goalless draw against Iran on Sunday, not due to the birth of his son, but because of a respiratory infection. He only traveled to London after the match, having been authorized by the federation and accompanied by a team doctor, to be with his wife and son while also recovering from the illness. Now fully recovered, he is expected to start against New Zealand in a match that could determine Belgium’s fate in the World Cup.

The captain of the national team, Youri Tielemans, commented on the situation on Monday, following the birth of Praise: “We sent a message to congratulate Jeremy and his wife. Having a child is the most beautiful thing in the world, and being present is more than normal as a father. I have three children myself, and those are memories that cannot be recovered, so I am very happy for him,” said Tielemans, showing complete understanding and solidarity with his teammate.

Doku’s decision has reignited the debate surrounding the priorities of footballers during major competitions, with opinions divided between the duty to the national team and the right to be present for irreplaceable family moments. The case gained even more media attention following controversial statements from French reporter France Pierron on L’Équipe, who deemed it “disgusting” to leave the national team for the birth of a child and stated: “The father is useless during childbirth. He won’t cut the umbilical cord; he cannot miss a World Cup.” The journalist’s words were quickly rebutted by French boxer Brahim Asloum: “A baby is for life. A World Cup ends when it ends.”

The wave of indignation forced the channel L’Équipe to issue a public apology: “France Pierron made statements that shocked many viewers of the channel L’Équipe. The station distances itself from these comments, which are far removed from the values of the Group, and apologizes to the targeted footballer and, more generally, to his fans.” Pierron herself later retracted: “These statements are exclusively mine and do not reflect any collective position. I understand that they may have shocked, offended, or hurt some, and I regret that,” she stated in a communiqué.

Despite the media storm, Jeremy Doku expressed his joy at this new personal chapter: “Shireen and Praise are doing great, and my heart is full of gratitude,” he wrote on social media. “Welcoming my son into the world is one of the greatest blessings God has given me. Thank you to the team for the support. Now it’s time to return to football and represent my country on the biggest stage of all,” added the Belgian international, focused on his return to competition.

The importance of this return for Belgium cannot be underestimated. After two disappointing matches and fierce criticism of the collective performances, the national team urgently needs Doku’s talent and irreverence to avoid an early elimination and a sporting scandal that would leave a mark on the recent history of the Red Devils. The match against New Zealand is a do-or-die situation, and the winger’s presence could be the decisive factor in saving the Belgian campaign and restoring some confidence among players, fans, and public opinion.

In the coming days, all eyes will be on Vancouver, where Belgium plays for its survival in the World Cup. It remains to be seen whether Doku can translate his personal happiness onto the pitch, rising to the occasion, silencing critics, and elevating the national team to a new level in this demanding competition. The pressure is at its peak, but the opportunity for redemption is also present. The fate of the Red Devils is now, more than ever, in the hands of Jeremy Doku.

YOU CAN NOW FOLLOW THE WORLD CUP WITH ALL THE INFORMATION – HERE